GPs criticised for charging medical card holders for blood tests

AGE Action has welcomed the statement by Health Minister James Reilly that GPs should not be charging medical card patients for routine blood tests.

A number of GPs have been charging medical card patients up to €20 for a blood test, despite the fact that the service is covered by the terms of the General Medical Services contract.

Those who refused to pay the charge were directed by their GP to their local hospital where the tests are free.